EDENTON — A large crowd filled the gymnasium at John A. Holmes High School on Thursday evening as rising eighth-graders and their families gathered for an open house introducing them to life at the school.
The event welcomed students who will make up the Class of 2030 when they enter the school as freshmen this fall. Teachers, school staff and student organizations were on hand to answer questions and showcase the opportunities available to incoming students.
Dozens of tables lined the gymnasium floor, where high school clubs and activities set up displays to introduce themselves. Groups such as the Student Government Association spoke with prospective students about getting involved in campus life, while teachers from academic departments shared information about classes and programs.
Edenton-Chowan Board of Education President George Lewis was also present for the open house, joining school officials and faculty members in greeting families and helping introduce the next generation of students to Holmes High.
During the event, Student Government Association President Chai Dillard addressed the crowd, encouraging incoming students to make the most of their high school experience.
“The next four years are going to feel so long, but they will move so quickly,” she said. “I encourage all of you to be active and make your school experience the best it can be, but make sure to prioritize your learning and time management, which is something I’m still learning myself.”
Dillard emphasized that involvement in school activities can play a major role in shaping the high school experience.
“High school is full of opportunities and being involved will not only boost you academically, but also socially,” she said. “Whether it’s by joining a club where you can express yourself and help others or a sport that you enjoy, or even becoming a part of student leadership as I did. There is something here for everyone.”
Students were also urged to take their academics seriously from the start.
“Ninth grade is not an experiment, and it is just as real as the others,” Dillard said. “Your GPA matters so stay focused and always do your best.”
Reflecting on their own experience at Holmes High, the student told the incoming freshmen that the challenges and opportunities of high school can help shape who they become.
“As someone who has had many different experiences in my four years, each one has built character and taught me something valuable,” Dillard said. “During this time there will be days when you just want to give up, but you can’t. You have to make sure that you put yourself first and go beyond what you think your limits are.”
“I will always be grateful to this school for shaping me into who I am through everything, and I hope you all gain the same thing that I did, if not more,” Dillard added. “Remember that everything happens for a reason and appreciate the things that happen to you because along the way, you’ll find your path and stick with it.”
Dillard concluded by welcoming the incoming class.
“Keep in mind to get involved, work hard, don’t ever be afraid to challenge yourself and take advantage of every opportunity,” she said. “I wish you all the best in your new chapter, and I hope you make your own experience meaningful to you. Welcome to John A. Holmes’ Class of 2030.”
For many of the visiting students, the open house provided their first chance to explore the campus and meet future teachers.
Joseph Layton, an eighth-grader at Chowan Middle School who plans to attend Holmes High in the fall, said he spent the evening walking around the gymnasium and talking with staff members.
“I walked around and I talked to the people,” Layton said.
Layton said he spoke with several teachers during the event.
“Yes,” he said when asked if he talked with teachers.
What impressed him most about the school was its appearance.
“It’s like the newest school I’ve ever seen,” Layton said. “The wall is nice, this floor is nice.”
He also said he learned about some of the opportunities available in high school.
“Almost everything has benefits,” Layton said.
Among the classes he plans to take is carpentry.
Layton said he met teachers in several subjects during the open house.
“Yes,” he said when asked if he met biology, math and English teachers.
Asked what he thought of them, Layton replied simply, “Good.”
He said he expects to have a positive experience when he begins high school this fall.
“Yes,” Layton said when asked if he thinks he will have a good experience at John A. Holmes High School.
Layton also said he plans to get involved in sports.
“Yes,” he said.
He added that he was impressed with the school’s gymnasium.
“It was clean and it didn’t have exposed ceiling things,” Layton said.
Looking ahead, Layton said reading may become his favorite subject.
“Probably reading,” he said.
With students exploring classrooms, meeting teachers and learning about clubs and activities, Thursday’s open house offered the Class of 2030 its first look at the opportunities awaiting them at John A. Holmes High School.
